Wayo Synthesis

Confronted with the challenges of a growing family, the foremost task in spatial design becomes striking a harmonious balance between diverse aesthetic and stylistic desires, all while satisfying functional needs. Particularly when household tastes span both Western sensibilities and Japanese scholarly influences, encapsulated within an ambiance of understated opulence.



Drawing inspiration from the 'Wayo' aesthetics that emerged following Japan's Meiji Restoration, this residence artfully melds Western and Japanese elements into every nook and cranny. The living room wall takes cues from Japanese folding screens, diminishing spatial divisions while adding a layer of profundity with Ginkgo leaf wallpaper—a symbol of happiness and harmony. The texture itself instills a sense of tranquility, rendering the wallpaper not merely decorative but enduringly meaningful and easily adaptable to future redesigns. On the TV wall, sandy marble harmonizes with Western minimalism, allowing nature to subtly infiltrate the space. A full-length, unobstructed window connects to the balcony, affording the room an expansive vista. Above the balcony, the placement of wicker rocking chairs lends a vacation-like quality to the environment.



Ceiling designs employ a variety of materials to transform what were originally heavy beams and columns into focal points. Through the utilization of rounded and angular forms, multilayered structures yield both visual dispersion and a sense of openness. The fluidity and convenience of the dining room and kitchen's circulation design coalesce seamlessly. The ceiling imitates a Japanese study's rooftop, reflecting a graceful amalgamation of Western and Japanese elements while lending a palpable transition to the space. The chandelier above the dining table, adorned with chrysanthemum motifs treasured in the Japanese imperial lineage, becomes the visual centerpiece of the dining area.



This project brilliantly fuses early Meiji "Wayo" aesthetics with the demands of modern life. Beyond its aesthetic and functional achievements, the design shows a commitment to sustainability and well-being, thanks to the use of certified zero-formaldehyde green building materials. Generous amounts of natural light serve a dual purpose: they showcase the benefits of high-rise living and allow the ever-changing beauty of the natural world to enrich the indoor experience.